Switching from a PC to a Mac? Here’s what you need to know.

Thinking about switching to a Mac because Windows 10 support is ending, or just looking for something new? Switching operating systems is a big change, but you'll be a Mac pro in no time. This article covers the key differences between Windows and Mac and guides you through transferring your data for a smooth transition.

How do Windows and macOS differ?

You can do almost everything on a Mac that you did on Windows, though things might work slightly differently at first. Many default settings differ, but you can easily customize them to suit your habits. For example, the default scroll direction is reversed compared to Windows, but you can change it in the settings to whatever feels natural to you.

Desktop

The most visible difference is the Mac menu bar at the top of the screen. It houses app-specific settings, system preferences, and power options. In Windows, the top of the screen is empty; app settings are built into the windows themselves, and power options are located in the taskbar at the bottom.

On a Mac, the Dock sits at the bottom by default. You can pin your favorite apps there and see which ones are currently open. You can also move the Dock to either side of the screen or hide it entirely to minimize distractions. The Dock also displays app notifications.

Keyboard shortcuts and function keys

One of the most significant differences between Windows and macOS is keyboard shortcuts. While Windows uses the Control key (Ctrl) for most commands, Mac uses the Command key (Cmd). For example, where you would press Ctrl + C to copy on Windows, you use Cmd + C on a Mac. This can take some getting used to, especially since Macs also have a Control key, and the Command key is positioned differently. However, many former Windows users find the Command key more logical once they adapt, as it allows for a more natural finger reach to the shortcut keys.

Introduction to Mac keyboard shortcuts → (Ulkoinen palvelu) (Avautuu uuteen välilehteen)

If you buy a separate keyboard, many are Mac-compatible but may feature a standard PC layout, which can change how shortcuts function. In addition to Apple’s own keyboards, other manufacturers offer models specifically designed for Mac with a Command key, or keyboards with fully programmable layouts.